Importance of field operations for reducing red palm weevil (RPW)‎ infestation on date palm

Abstract EN

Date palm tree is known to be very sensitive to field operations.

The production and health of the tree are relative to the attention of the growers.

Several field operations, including the choice of offshoots, spacing, fertilization, irrigation, fruit thinning, leaf pruning, and harvesting are important field practices.

Cultivation operations, if well conducted, can reduce pest infestation on date palm tree and fruits, ameliorate the health of date palm tree and its production.

It is essential to adopt the best practices to avoid many fungal and pest’s infestations and reduce the loss of date palm production up to 30-40%.

Red Palm Weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus) is spread rapidly from East to West during 30 last years and was reported in several date-producing countries in the region.

Studies carried out in date palm cultivation area confirmed that the date palm farming practices adopted, the variety planted, method of irrigation (flood/drip), palm density, crop and field sanitation, frond pruning, and offshoot removal, significantly impacted the establishment and subsequent infestation level due to red palm weevil on date palm.